Schlitterbahn Vacation Village Waterpark is a splashing good time

Family Fun on Kristal River, Photo courtesy of Schlitterbahn Vacation Village Waterpark

The new Schlitterbahn Vacation Village Waterpark in Kansas City, Kansas is still under construction, with only the first phase of attractions completed. But, even though just a third of the park is ready for action this season, Kansas City’s water babies still have a lot to smile about. The day I visited, an exuberant crowd seemed to be having a great time experiencing the uphill water coaster, three tubing slides, one tubing chute, two tubing rivers (including the world’s longest tidal wave river), thirteen mini-slides for kids, three relaxing “beach” areas with lounge chairs, and a giant hot tub with a swim-up refreshment bar (Henry’s Hideout).

Torrent River (my personal favorite) is billed as “the world’s largest tidal wave river.” Part “lazy river” and part “wave pool,” this area of the park keeps guests guessing about when the next cooling wave is going to hit. I think that I could have floated through here forever (in fact, I was so blissed out that I didn’t even notice that I’d lost my swim goggles). Best of all, Schlitterbahn provides free life jackets and inner tubes to guests, so you don’t have to tote your own inflatable tire or fork over cash to rent one. There are even double tubes featuring a little seat on one side, so small children can ride more comfortably with a parent.

You can ride the Raging River Chute directly from Torrent Beach to Kristal River, a “lazy river” attraction which is peaceful and slow-flowing. This is a good place to relax and just mellow out in the sunshine.

The Storm Blaster (uphill water coaster), Wolfpack Tube Slide, Black Knight Tube Slide, and Bahnzai Pipeline Tube Slide are all high-thrill rides, and Kinderhaven is a shallow pool with cute play sculptures for the small fry—a train, a frog, and a turtle.

Many attractions in the park are interconnected by the Transportainment river system, so guests can travel from one end of the park to the other without ever leaving the water.

Parking is free, and picnic coolers are welcome, although glass containers and alcohol are banned.

The waterpark is open weekends through September 20 to take advantage of the lingering Kansas summer. And, if you buy a 2010 season pass now, you can get in free for the rest of the 2009 season.

When the $750 million resort is completed during the next few years, it will be a massive 360 acres, filled with additional waterpark attractions, year-round dining and entertainment areas, lodging facilities, and the Riverwalk shopping area.

But, for now, guests can have a great time diving into the Kansas City area’s newest waterpark, and dreaming about even better Schlitterbahn days to come.

This is the first in a series on water parks in the Midwest. Be sure to read about Kalahari Resort in Sandusky, Ohio.